He was born in Slovakia, led a revolution, and became a legend.
In this episode of Families That Made Slovakia, uncover the story of the House of Rákoczy—one of the most powerful noble families in Central Europe. Follow the rise and rebellion of Francis Rákoczy II, whose dream of freedom set the region ablaze and whose legacy still echoes across the land.

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Explore more Slovak history and heritage
Take your curiosity further with Heritage and Homeland—our most popular online course for Slovak descendants, filled with tradition, stories, and identity.

https://globalslovakiaacademy.freshlearn.com/homeland

In this episode from The Slovak Kitchen series, we dive into the story of cabbage—one of the most essential, overlooked, and beloved staples of Slovak life. More than just a vegetable, kapusta was survival food, folk medicine, and the centerpiece of countless traditions.

From the legendary sauerkraut of Záhorie to Christmas kapustnica and cabbage-stuffed pastries, discover how this humble crop shaped Slovak winters, kitchens, and communities. Fermented, shredded, or baked—it carried families through hardship and celebration alike.

Tune in to explore why cabbage isn’t just food in Slovakia—it’s identity.

What if Slovakia had its own Great Wall—and no one told you?

Deep in the forests of central and southern Slovakia, a forgotten mystery lies hidden beneath moss and shadow. It’s been called the Wall of Giants—a colossal stone structure, blackened by fire, older than records, and stretching for kilometers.

Who built it? Why was it burned? And what was it holding back?

In this premiere episode of Slovak Mysteries, we travel beyond the history books to uncover a silent monument that refuses to give up its secrets. Was it a Celtic defense line? A Roman outpost? Or something far more ancient—and uncanny?

Follow us into the woods. What we find may change how you see Slovakia forever.

Meet Richard Morris and discover how the story of his grandmother kickstarted a healing journey for other descendants.

Meet Chris Stifel and discover what happened when he discovered 19 old letters addressed to his grandmother and grandfather.

Meet Krysten and Michael Jenci and discover a story of relentless desire to reconnect with the homeland. 

Meet Deah Partak and learn about how her predecessors came to America and helped to kick off Slovak-American community life. Their family tavern in Chicago Illinois became a heart and a soul of the neighborhood. 

Meet Terezia Marlowe and discover her family’s story of facing religious persecution under communism, fleeing Slovakia and re-creating a new life and purpose in Vancouver, Canada.

Meet Father Mathew Butrie. His great-grandfather perished in a Pennsylvanian coal mine, leaving behind a wife and five children. How did the family overcome the cruel blow of destiny?